If you are familiar with chainsaws then you know how they lend a powerful force to your property management. Various chainsaw sizes, strengths, and designs can be utilized for any sort of cutting job you can place before it, and it doesn’t take long to realize their usefulness even if you are new to their strength. But when you have limbs or branches that are above your head that need cutting, unless you are an arborist, you may struggle to find a safe solution to get those jobs taken care of.

Climbing up on the ladder when using a chainsaw never recommended, but luckily there is a tool available for homeowners to get to those hard to reach, overhead places. Pole chainsaws are just like they sound: a chainsaw connected to a pole. But don’t think this is some DIY project you can do on your own; the best pole chainsaws are lightweight, highly balanced, and most importantly, have some serious safety measures built in.

5 Best Pole Chainsaw Comparisons

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FEATURES

Sun Joe Telescopic Electric Pole Chain Saw

SUN JOE TELESCOPIC ELECTRIC POLE CHAIN SAW

  • Weight:7.9 lbs
  • Bar Length:10 inches
  • Max pole length:telescoping to 14’corded electric, 8 amp
  • Power:corded electric, 8 amp
  • Warranty:2 year

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WORX WG309 2 in 1 Electric Pole Saw

WORX WG309 2 IN 1 ELECTRIC POLE SAW

  • Weight:10 lbs
  • Bar Length:10 inches
  • Max pole length:10 feet
  • Power:Corded electric, 8 amps
  • Warranty:3 year

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Greenworks 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw

GREENWORKS 8-INCH CORDLESS POLE SAW

  • Weight:8.4 lbs
  • Bar Length:8 inch
  • Max pole length:8 foot
  • Power:Cordless electric, 40 volt
  • Warranty:4 years

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BLACK+DECKER Lithium-Ion Cordless Pole Saw

BLACK+DECKER LITHIUM-ION CORDLESS POLE SAW

  • Weight:6.3 lbs
  • Bar Length:8 inches
  • Max pole length:10 feet
  • Power:cordless electric, 20 volt
  • Warranty:2 year

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Remington Rm25Ps Gas Pole Saw

REMINGTON RM25PS GAS POLE SAW

  • Weight:13.2 lbs
  • Bar Length:8 inch
  • Max pole length:7 foot
  • Power:gas, 25cc
  • Warranty:2 years

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What is a Pole Chainsaw?

POLE

A pole chainsaw is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It is a chainsaw at the end of a pole that allows you to control it by keeping both feet on the ground. These are designed to get into those hard to reach places above your head that need pruning or trimming, or even in some cases, serious branch removal. These types of saws can be either electric or gas and can have some awesome features, such as telescoping handles and adjustable angle heads.

Types of Pole Chainsaws

Just like any other type of chainsaw, there are many makes and models from which to choose. You should find the saw that works best for the jobs you have in mind, as the small nuances that define one from another may be more specific to the job you have in mind.

Electric cordless

Battery powered saws use either a lithium-ion or Ni-Cad rechargeable battery. With advances in technology there are many very powerful models from which to choose, so don’t rule these completely out even if you have some heavy work to complete. They may be the least powerful choice, but they are powerful tools nonetheless. Obviously, you are limited by battery run time, but if you purchase an extra battery it can keep you working for longer than the battery life. Plus, the maintenance on a cordless electric pole saw is minimal, meaning you basically only need to worry about the addition of a bar and chain oil for a smooth running saw a basic cleaning and adjustment of parts and the sharpening of your chain.

Electric corded

Corded electric pole chainsaws are a bit like the cordless version big brother. Because they are powered directly from an electrical outlet, they can often put out a bit more power than a rechargeable battery (but not always, so be sure to do your homework). These are also usually the most affordable saws for homeowners as they provide both power and convenience, without the hefty price tag. Of course, you are limited by the length of your extension cord when using this product, but that often is very rarely an issue for most consumers. You also have very little maintenance outside of the cleaning, sharpening, and making sure the bar and chain oil level is acceptable.

Gas powered

Gas powered pole chainsaws are durable beasts that use a 2-stroke engine fueled by a gas and oil mixture to power through your job. These are almost exclusively the most powerful type of pole chainsaw, but as mentioned earlier, do not underestimate the power of electric saws. Gas saws usually have a wide range of size and features to choose from and are powerful tools. Plus, due to their variety, can be found to fit just about any budget. They also are generally heavier than their electric counterparts, but not by much. They also require regular maintenance, such as attention to spark plugs, filters, and other features of a 2-stroke engine. You also need to provide gas and oil, as well as bar chain and oil, and should not confuse the two.

Details to Consider

Other than the type of saw you decide upon, you will want to also take into account the pole reach and chain length. This is actually an important consideration and can affect the overall value of the saw. The material poles are made from can vary due to the strength they need to provide. Fiberglass and steel are the most often used materials and can be offered in a single length, or telescoping length choices. If you need to cut a limb 10 foot from the ground, there would be no need to purchase a pole that can reach further, especially if the cost cannot be justified.

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Like traditional saws, pole chainsaws also come with a variety of bar and chain lengths. The chain length is supported by the amount of power produced by the saw and helps determine the size job you need to take care of. On average, most saws have an 8-inch chain, but many are capable of supporting anywhere from 6 to 12 inches in length.

What Would I Want a Pole Chainsaw?

Pole2-Remington-RM1035P

Why not just climb up on a ladder to cut those higher up branches? I could provide a sarcastic answer, but chainsaws and ladders do not mix well- and unless you are a trained arborist, probably want to avoid using a chainsaw while your feet are off the ground. A pole chainsaw allows you to cut those high to reach places in a safe, and effective manner. They also can save you from making an appointment with a forestry service to trim above the ground. Pole chainsaws are easy to use, generally very affordable, and are very handy tools to have for property maintenance. They have easy grip handles, are of a lightweight design, and have safety features to ensure you are working in the manner intended. Plus, many have adjustable poles and heads so you can work in various situations and reach what you need to reach.

 

Factors to Consider When Buying a Pole Chainsaw

Not all pole chainsaws are the same, and when considering a purchase, you will want to first take into account your needs and personal preferences in relation to comfort and safety when using such a tool.

What do you need to cut?

Pole chainsaws are an awesome tool, but they are not made for major limb cutting of larger sizes. Nor are they made to cut anything longer than the height the pole provides (meaning: don’t use it on a ladder). If you have reachable, small top moderate cuts to make, then a pole chainsaw may be the best tool for you. Otherwise, you may want to consider hiring an expert.

How much experience do you have with a chainsaw?

A pole chainsaw operates slightly differently than a traditional one, so, like any other power tool new to you, be sure to pay particular attention to how to use your tool, as well as putting safety measures in place. If you have never used a chainsaw before, or are unsure of a pole saw, then it might be worthwhile getting experience while under supervision by a friend, or local extension office.

Are you on a budget?

Pole chainsaws are often very budget friendly, to begin with. And as described above, some are more budget-friendly than others. Unfortunately, pole chainsaws are specific to pretty much one job only- cutting branches, limbs, etc… that are out of reach. That doesn’t negate their overall affordability, but they aren’t exactly a tool you will use for anything else.

Our Top 5 Best Rated Pole Chainsaw Reviews

Of course, there are many makes and models of pole chainsaws available for you to review, but our top choices come from some of the top rated in all categories to provide you an idea of what pole pruner options you have to get your job done.

Sun Joe Telescopic Electric Pole Chain Saw

Sun Joe Telescopic Electric Pole Chain Saw
  • Weight: 7.9 lbs
  • Bar Length: 10 inches
  • Max pole length: telescoping to 14’
  • Power: corded electric, 8 amp
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Sun Joe is the offshoot of Snow Joe, a company that first began their foray into machinery to help you with winter chores. Their Sun Joe line, as the name suggests, is specific to warmer weather, and specializes in electrically powered machinery. Their 8 amp, corded pole saw has a 10-inch chain and a telescoping pole that can reach from 7.2 to 14 feet in length. This combination of power and reach can take care of branches up to 7 inches thick. This saw also boasts a multi-angle head that can be set in a 0 to 30-degree angle in order to better reach the limbs you need to cut. The handle has a cord hook in to keep it out of the way while you work, and the saw starts up easy with just a push of the button. There is a built-in safety switch to keep from accidental startups as well.

PROS

  • Easy to handle and cuts smoothly
  • Very lightweight
  • Durable

CONS

  • Guard screw needs to be tightened after use
  • Goes through oil quickly

PRO TIP

This is a powerful tool for moderate, residential size work. If you have the space to use a corded electric in, this is an excellent choice due to the multiple lengths the handle can extend to, as well as the larger, 10-inch chain to handle the job.

WORX WG309 2 in 1 Electric Pole Saw

WORX WG309 2 in 1 Electric Pole Saw
  • Weight: 10 lbs
  • Bar Length: 10 inches
  • Max pole length: 10 feet
  • Power: Corded electric, 8 amps
  • Warranty: 3 year

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WORX is a well-known brand that offers a variety of tools and other helpful products for use on your property. Their corded electric pole saw has a powerful 8 amp engine, and 10-inch chain to provide you with the power to cut up to 7-inch branches. Plus, it is a true 2 in 1 tool, and can actually detach from the pole to work as a handheld saw as well. Because of this the cord attaches to the saw, rather than the handle, via a cord keeper. With an extendable pole, this saw can reach up to 10 feet, and also has a bar and chain oil lubricant button to ensure your machine has the proper amount of oil to run efficiently without binding up. Plus, the handle can rotate to provide you with better reach to get what needs to be done completed without having to find a new angle.

PROS

  • Very easy to reset the chain
  • Very solid and easy to cut with
  • Easy saw conversion from pole to hand

CONS

  • A little heavy when extended
  • Oil is a bit leaky

PRO TIP

This is a great residential choice for anyone looking for a dual purpose product. With a removable pole, an option to use the saw for more than one type of job, this makes it an efficient machine indeed.

Greenworks 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw

Greenworks 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw
  • Weight: 8.4 lbs
  • Bar Length: 8 inch
  • Max pole length: 8 foot
  • Power: Cordless electric, 40 volt
  • Warranty: 4 years

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Greenworks, as their name implies, focuses on environmentally friendly practices in their product use. With 70% less noise and vibration, and a 32% lighter design due to design, their 40-volt cordless saw is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can give you up to 50 cuts on their smallest offered battery, which is compatible with their entire line of tools found in their G-Max product system. The 8-inch chain is more than capable of handling smaller to medium sized jobs, and with an 8-foot extendable pole, is the perfect reach for all the cutting you need to take care of that is just out of reach. At only 8.4 lbs, it is extremely lightweight, and with an automatic oiler, you don’t have to worry about getting anything less than a clean, smooth cut each time.

PROS

  • Well balanced and easy to handle
  • Instant start and stop
  • Surprisingly powerful

CONS

  • The battery can be hard to get in and out
  • Safety trigger can make your thumb sore

PRO TIP

Cordless saws are awesome tools for when you need some portability. This is a strong enough saw to work through small to medium sized jobs for up to an hour at a time and is the perfect lightweight tool for homeowner use.

BLACK+DECKER Lithium-Ion Cordless Pole Saw

BLACK+DECKER Lithium-Ion Cordless Pole Saw
  • Weight: 6.3 lbs
  • Bar Length: 8 inches
  • Max pole length: 10 feet
  • Power: cordless electric, 20 volt
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Black & Decker has been a go-to homeowner brand for product dependability and long life for over 100 years. Their cordless electric pole saw has a maximum 10-foot pole length, and 8-inch blade to cut up to 6-inch diameter branches with ease. The 20-volt rechargeable, lithium-ion battery has a 100 cut life for branches that do not exceed 1.5 inches and is 100% compatible with all of the companies’ MAX line of cordless power tool options. At a mere 6.3 lbs, this tool can be used at either 6.5 or 10-foot lengths with the addition of extra screw in poles (included), and can easily disassemble for storage and transport. The automatic oil reservoir keeps your chain running smoothly for quick, even cuts, and very little maintenance is required as no tension or adjustment is needed. Once the blade is worn out simply replace the entire bar and chain.

PROS

  • Very lightweight and well balanced
  • Cuts smoothly and efficiently
  • Very easy to use for beginners

CONS

  • Battery life not as expected
  • No manual adjustment

PRO TIP

This is a great addition to your household trimming and pruning collection of power tools. The incredibly simple design allows for easy start and uses, and just about anyone can master the use of this machine to help get their property cleaned up.

Remington Rm25Ps Gas Pole Saw

Remington Rm25Ps Gas Pole Saw
  • Weight: 13.2 lbs
  • Bar Length: 8 inch
  • Max pole length: 7 foot
  • Power: gas, 25cc
  • Warranty: 2 years

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With a name like Remington, you can assume you are getting a decent product for an excellent value. The Rm25Ps is a 25cc 2-stroke engine with an 8-inch bar and chain to provide the power to cut quickly and easily through branches and limbs up to 6 inches in diameter. With a 7 foot, fixed pole length, you can easily reach approximately 12 feet in height or more when combined with your own body length and arm reach. At 13.2 lbs total, the saw is average for a gas-powered version, but the pole is a rigid durable support and has a wrap around the handle to added stability. An auto oiler keeps the chain spinning efficiently, plus it is easy to adjust tension or chain replacement when needed. Also, the tool accepts various head attachment for other jobs you may have a need for.

PROS

  • Well balanced
  • Long lasting chain
  • Easy to put together and use right out of the box

CONS

  • Pole connectors may loosen when working
  • May not start too easily at first

PRO TIP

If a durable, powerful pole saw is needed for moderate to heavier job loads, then a 2-cycle engine may be the way to go. This is highly portable, and despite having more maintenance to deal with than an electric, it is simple to undertake. Plus, with the ability to change out heads, you can use it for more jobs!

Conclusion

Of course, finding your perfect pole saw has much to do with the job at hand and your personal preferences, but whether you choose an electric version or a gas powered one, you can’t go wrong with any of the models picks we have provided. I am a huge fan of corded electric saws of all types of work in the yard and on the property. They are efficient, surprisingly powerful, and a great value. Because of this the WORX WG309 2 in 1 Electric Pole Saw is my top pick, especially since the saw can be used as a stand-alone after the removal of the head- which can be quite handy for a variety of other jobs you may have. If you have any questions about the provided saw choices, or have a favorite you would like to share with us, please let us know below. And, as always, please share the article!